Seizure of potato continues in West Bengal ; 4,117 tonnes recovered so far

Seizure of potato-laden trucks bound for other states and neighbouring countries continued all over West Bengal for the third consecutive day today, even as state administration made arrangements for the seized tubers' sale in local markets at government regulated price.

"Altogether 252 potato-laden trucks carrying 4,117 tonnes have been seized in last three days state-wide," state Agriculture Minister Purnendu Bose said, adding, the measures had yielded results with the check in rising potato price.

"The situation has improved as we have not received any major complaint from anywhere in the state today. Potato price is under control all over the state," he said. Clampdown on potato-laden trucks for other states and neighbouring countries began here following a directive from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The state administration also earmarked a ceiling for potato stock in both wholesale and retail markets to prevent its hoarding. "The state administration has arranged to sell the seized potato (Jyoti variety) at Rs 12 per kg to the retailers who will sale them at Rs 14 per kg in local markets," he said.